Community

Andy Keller

INDIANAPOLIS - Indiana Black Expo (IBE) and Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) announced today that it has enhanced its partnership during IBE’s 2023 Summer Celebration which will take place from Thursday, July 6 through Sunday, July 16th.&nbsp; The expanded partnership consists of the following:

Other events during Summer Celebration include the largest Black and minority health fair in the country, an Education Conference that provides professional development training to Indiana educators and administrators, and a host of other events and initiatives. For a full calendar of events, visit summercelebration.net.&nbsp;

“PS&E and IBE have enjoyed a partnership aimed at enhancing outcomes for diverse communities in the state of Indiana for decades. In advance of next year’s 2024 NBA All-Star Game, it was natural to join forces to highlight the event and initiatives that will take place in Indianapolis as well as provide pertinent information to businessowners interested in participating in the NBA’s supplier diversity program,” said IBE President Alice Watson. Watson is also co-chair of the XBE Committee.

"Indiana Black Expo has been one of Indiana’s key organizations for more than five decades, elevating the voices of African American Hoosiers and attracting thousands of visitors to our capital city each year,” said Rick Fuson, PS&E Chief Executive Officer. “We have been a long-time partner of the Summer Celebration, and with the All White Affair coming to Gainbridge Fieldhouse, we are excited to make this a true All-Star Celebration in advance of next year’s game!”

The events highlighting IBE and PS&E’s partnership are:

Indiana Black Expo, Inc. is a nonprofit 501(c) (3) statewide organization with 12-chapter affiliates. The mission of IBE is to serve as an effective voice and vehicle for the social and economic advancement of AfricanAmericans. IBE is known for its two major events, Summer Celebration and Circle City Classic® and provides year-round youth and family initiatives, including its Education Conference, recent Black Business Training

Institute, Performing Arts Academy, Community Learning Hub, Education Day (college fair), Summer Internship&nbsp; Program, Scholarship Fund, Statewide Anti-Tobacco Initiative, Youth Leadership Summit, Talent Day (Career Fair), and Business Series and Conference.

About Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E)

Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E) is the corporate identity exemplified by the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Pacers Gaming, Pacers Foundation, Inc., and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Its team of inspired and dedicated employees promises to deliver quality entertainment and unparalleled service.

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IBE and PS&E Strengthen Partnership During Summer Celebration  to Highlight NBA All-Star Weekend and Opportunities

Brendan Rourke

Pacers Sports &amp; Entertainment, Indy Parks, and the Parks Alliance of Indianapolis today unveiled the refurbishments at the outdoor basketball court at Brookside Park on the city’s near eastside, highlighted by a vibrant mural painted on the main court capturing the vibrancy and energy of surrounding neighborhoods.

The mural, created by PS&amp;E Art Director Joel Dale and executed by Indiana artist Carl Leck, represents a partnership between the three organizations to upgrade the courts used by more than 30,000 children and adults each year. The project is part of the NBA Cares program celebrating the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Season with the goal of creating Live, Learn, and Play Centers in NBA markets across the country. Moreover, it reflects PS&amp;E’s commitment to Intentional Generosity In Intentional Geography, an effort the company launched in 2020 to redirect resources into Indianapolis’ most vulnerable zip codes.

“So many of the important lessons our kids learn are learned right here on the basketball court, and we know there is no more important and lasting investment we make than to give the children of this neighborhood a safe and exciting place to play and grow,” said Rick Fuson, PS&amp;E Chief Executive Officer.

“We are so grateful to the City of Indianapolis and the NBA for working with us on this important project, and we look forward to seeing this court come alive with local children and residents for years to come.”

The court mural was designed to reflect the intersection of basketball and culture that has helped shape the character of Indianapolis neighborhoods for decades. It takes the standard brand elements of the Pacers and Fever and elevates them, turning up the dial on the colors to capture the energy and pride shared by the city’s residents. The goal is to evoke the feeling people across Indianapolis, young and old, get when playing our game.

“Few things unite Indianapolis residents quite like the game of basketball,” said Mayor Joe Hogsett. “Thanks to partnership between Pacers Sports &amp; Entertainment and Indy Parks, countless current and future residents will be able to enjoy this enhanced court at Brookside Park. This project not only marks our continued mission of improving City facilities, but also highlights the Pacers’ commitment to the Indianapolis community, unifies the sports and cultural scenes across our city, and increases the pride and passion of neighbors.”

This is the second investment PS&amp;E has made at Brookside Park in the past 5 years. In 2018, the Pacers Foundation and Indianapolis Power &amp; Light (AES) refurbished the indoor court at the Brookside Community Center at the park. This was the first indoor gymnasium renovation in a broader effort to renovate community courts across the city, a push that began in 2013.

“Knowing that parks are special places for so many children and their families, we are thrilled to continue our work with Pacers Sports &amp; Entertainment to invest in our city’s parks and park spaces,” said Phyllis Boyd, Indy Parks Director.

“Together, we will continue to explore opportunities to enhance these spaces while connecting the people we serve to programs, outdoor activities, and engaging experiences.”

"The Parks Alliance of Indianapolis is committed to connecting resources to needs on behalf of Indy's parks and public spaces for the people who use them," said Lori Hazlett, President &amp; CEO of The Parks Alliance. "Since 2013, our team has been proud to partner with Pacers Sports &amp; Entertainment to align their community initiatives with opportunities that invest in one of Indy Parks most utilized amenities - basketball courts. Today we celebrate nearly 10 years of this partnership that has resulted in 19 new courts in 13 Indy Parks."

Pacers Sports &amp; Entertainment is an integrated sports and entertainment company including the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, Fort Wayne Mad Ants, Pacers Gaming, Pacers Foundation, Inc., and operations of Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Its team of inspired and dedicated employees has a shared purpose of winning through a commitment to excellence, serving the local community and entertaining fans and guests.

With over a century of history advancing the value of parks and welcoming all residents and visitors, Indy Parks connects communities by providing places and experiences that inspire healthy living, social engagement, and a love of nature. Annually, the parks department serves 8 million people and offers 213 parks, 11,258 acres of greenspace, 153 miles of trails, 131 playgrounds, 19 aquatic centers, 155 sports fields, more than 2,000 programs, and so much more.

About the Parks Alliance of Indianapolis:

The Parks Alliance is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and proud partner of the Central Indiana Community Foundation. For more than 30 years, The Parks Alliance has worked alongside Indy Parks &amp; Recreation to identify needs and opportunities to develop and maintain Indy’s parks, trails, greenways, and public spaces. Since 1991, The Park Alliance has secured and administered nearly $100 million on behalf of Indy Parks and the people that use them. The Parks Alliance board and staff have established a strong track record of stewarding philanthropy to demonstrate its critical value in making Indy a great place to live, work, play, and visit.

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PS&E Partners with Local Park Organizations to Leave Lasting Legacy

hoosier-lottery-community-impact-award

Hoosier Lottery Community Impact Award

admin

The Indiana Heroes program presented by Citizens Energy Group serves as one of the premier community outreach programs of the Indiana Pacers. This program honors an individual(s) who have made an overwhelming impact on the lives of others and who, through their unique commitment and humanitarian spirit, have made exceptional and lasting contributions to our community and our State.

Nominate Someone for the Indiana Heroes Award Program »

The Indiana Pacers are now accepting nominations Indiana Pacers Indiana Heroes Award Program presented by Citizens Energy Group. Click Here to nominate a neighbor, friend or relative who is a firefighter, policeman, rescue worker, or just an everyday hero like a teacher, nurse or community leader making a difference. Nominations must include the nominee’s name, street address, city, state, zip code, phone number and email address, along with a short description of why this nominee is deserving of the award. The description should include examples of the nominee’s level of commitment, as well as any lasting contributions to the community.

Helen Parrish, an 11-year old special needs child, was taking a dip with her family in their apartment complex pool when a 2-year old child who couldn’t swim, fell into the pool.  Using the knowledge she had received from her own swim lessons, Helen helped rescue the drowning child by pulling her out and placing her on top of the pool steps.  Due to Helen’s actions, the 2-year has made a full recovery.

For the past two years, Olivia has been on a mission to help kids her age learn about brain health & prevention.  After seeing first-hand her mom suffer from two traumatic brain injuries, she does not want other kids to experience what her mom does on a daily basis.  Olivia regularly gives presentations to her 3rd & 4th grade class and helped raise money for brain injury education this year.

Using her ambition to help brain injury awareness among her peer, she partnered with the Dave Duerson Athletic Safety Fund, Inc. to help raise awareness of brain injuries/concussions in student athletes.

Officer Rod Bradway, a five-year veteran of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, was shot and killed while responding to a domestic dispute call in a northwest Indianapolis apartment complex. Upon arrival, Officer Bradway heard cries for help and made entry into an apartment where he came under fire and was mortally wounded.  Officer Bradway was able to return fire on the subject and is credited with saving the life of the domestic dispute victim. Officer Bradway was transported to Wishard Hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds several hours later.

Officer Bradway is remembered as a true Indiana Hero and we are proud to honor his wife Jamie and his children for this ultimate sacrifice to our community.

Ann Mennonno was named the 2013-14 Indianapolis Public Schools Teacher of the Year – the 2nd time she has received the award.  Ann teaches at Center For Inquiry #27 and loves reading & encourages all of her students to fall in love with books.  She is a dedicated teacher and spent this past summer teaching students in China and Honduras.

Denise has been offering on-going support to families and friends that are making the journey through a cancer diagnosis.  After talking to many providers it became clear that affordable housing during their treatment was lacking in Indianapolis.  Denise and her husband Scott, took on the financial risk and purchased a home that will become the SON Foundation House, located near the IU Simon Cancer Center.  For a nominal donation of $15 per night, the SON Foundation hopes to provide a “home away from home” where patients, caregivers and/or families can take care of their everyday tasks, as well as find emotional and spiritual support during this difficult time.

Steve Berman is the President and Chief Executive Officer of JAKKS Pacific, a multi-brand company that, since 1995, has been designing, developing, producing and marketing toys, leisure products and writing instruments for children and adults around the world.

Since 2010, Mr. Berman and Jakks Cares have generously donated over 225,000 toys to benefit under-served children in Indianapolis and bring joy to their faces, not only during the holidays, but all year long!

These toys have been distributed to area non-profit children’s organizations in both July and December and have helped these children simply smile, play and succeed.

OFFICER KIMBERLY KELSAY & SGT. WILLIAM CARTER

Officer Kelsay’s primary duties have her working closely with students from K-12 in the Indianapolis Public, Wayne Township, and Decatur Township School Systems, which are all located in the IMPD Southwest District boundaries. Officer Kelsay works non-stop in giving her presentations to these students, which include the subjects of substance abuse, bullying, safety/personal protection, among others.

Officer Kelsay has touched the lives of many students in her capacity of her multiple presentations. Boys and girls alike have benefited & received encouragement, support, valuable teaching/information, and even protection by Officer Kelsay’s intervention.

Many of her interactions include follow-up visits at the homes of students, with their parents & family. Officer Kelsay impacts the lives of others by making a difference in these kid’s lives when they need it most, & many times she is the only person that does.

IMPD and the city of Indianapolis is a better place simply because of Officer Kelsay.

Going out of his way to enhance his service to our community and to IMPD, Sgt. Carter both purchased and uses a personal bloodhound to search for missing persons on his own time.  This is not part of his regular duties as an IMPD officer and was called out 20 times last year on searches.

Sgt. Carter obtained the bloodhound in 2005 after responding to the drowning death of a 7 year old autistic boy who wandered away from home and ended up in a retention pond.  Sgt. Carter has been featured in the media with his devotion to others and places the department in a positive light throughout the community he serves.

IMPD Officer Greg Stevens responded to a disturbance call at an east-side apartment complex, where two men were shooting at each other.  After arriving on scene, Officer Stevens saw one suspect with a gun and ordered him to drop it.  When the suspect refused to drop the gun; shots were exchanged and Officer Stevens was struck in the leg.

Witnesses called his actions extremely brave and helped deter further violence in the area that night.  Officer Stevens has since made a full recovery.

In addition to his service on the police force, Officer Stevens is Marine Corps veteran who served three tours in Iraq.

The city of Indianapolis experienced a series of brutal home invasion robberies and assaults. Each incident resulted in more aggressive behavior by the suspects, resulting in shootings, vicious assaults, and the ransacking of the residences. The incidents occurred early in the morning, where the unsuspecting victims were dragged out of their bedrooms.

These attacks frightened the entire community, which experienced an increase in gun sales and the overall feeling that people were not safe in their own homes.

Detectives Perkins and Cress worked hundreds of hours over a four week period, to identify and arrest the responsible persons. They went with little sleep and worked around the clock. There were hundreds of leads to follow and numerous pieces of evidence to collect and analyze.

This extreme sacrifice resulted in the arrest of 12 suspects, with over 250 felony charges being filed. Detectives Perkins and Cress also obtained confessions from several of the suspects, resulting in a solid criminal case being put together.

This pack of criminals will be off the streets of Indianapolis for many years to come.

Our city breathed a sigh of relief, and is now safer thanks to the hard work of Detectives Perkins and Cress.

As a volunteer policeman in Elwood, Albert always goes out of his way to assist other people.  While on duty at a local Haunted House, one of the costumed employees came in contact with a burning torch and caught on fire.  Albert went over to him and proceeded to cut his costume off and rolled him on the ground until the fire was out.  In the process, Albert’s shoes and the bottom of his pants were also burned.  Thanks to Albert’s quick thinking and swift action, the victim survived and is currently recovering from his burns.

In October of this year, Indiana State Superintendent of Public Instruction Glenda Ritz, awarded Steven Perkins of North Central High School as Indiana’s 2014 Teacher of the Year.

Perkins is a high school Latin teacher and has been teaching at North Central since 1998.  He uses his passion for Latin to teach his students more than language.  Through language he also teaches them about art, math, geography, history, English and the performing arts.  He tirelessly works to improve his students’ knowledge of the world.

Indiana State Police Sgt. Luke NaThalang recently saved the life of an individual who had a heart attack after being involved in a car crash.  Sgt. NaThalanag arrived at the scene and administered CPR, keeping the victim alive until EMS arrived.  As a 29-year Indiana State Police Motorcycle Unit officer, he is dedicated to our safety on Indiana’s roads.

Claire Helmen, a senior at Bishop Chatard High School, is doing her part to help comfort children who have gone through a traumatic event.  Claire has donated 600 blankets to the Indianapolis Police Department, as part of her self-created charitable organization, Claire’s Comfort for Kids.

Claire came up with the idea when she was in 6th grade after wondering what happened to children involved in domestic violence situations.  She came up with the idea to make blankets, as way to give them a big warm hug.

Claire has created a total of 3,600 blankets and is a former Children’s Museum Power of Children Award winner and was recognized for her creation of this amazing program.

An IMPD officer bought new bicycles for two children whose bikes were stolen within a few days of each other.  Officer Jason Scott was dispatched Monday to an east side home to take a report on the theft of a 7-year-old girl's bicycle, a recent birthday gift. Jessica, the girl's mother, told the officer that it was the second such theft in their household in just a few days. Her 8-year-old son's bike was also taken.  Metro police say the mom cried as she shared pictures of the bikes, photos that might help identify them if officers found the bikes. Officer Scott said he couldn't help but notice that both mom and dad worked hard to provide for their family, but had little left over for luxuries, much less replacing stolen gifts.  The officer's supervisors say that, without hesitation, Scott drove to a Walmart and picked out two bikes to replace the ones which were stolen, paying for them from his own pocket.  Having learned what the officer was doing, Walmart provided a discount.  Jessica said the kids were thrilled with their new bikes and added that she did not expect the IMPD officer's generous gesture.

Greenfield Police Officer Josh Mullins responded to a call of a house fire.  Upon arriving on the scene, he discovered the home engulfed in flames, and also learned that this home belonged to a fellow firefighter in Indianapolis who was on duty that night.  Battling the flames, he could hear people yelling for help and noticed the screams were coming from a second-story window. He knew he had to get these people out immediately.  Officer Mullins convinced the two teenagers and mother inside to jump into his arms below.  Officer Mullins safely caught all three victims who escaped with only minor injuries.

MARILYN EVANS, CARLA LEPPERT AND KATE APPEL

Marilyn, Carla and Kate have been instrumental in developing and implementing Riley Hospital for Children’s Art Therapy Program.  Art therapy is a natural form of expression for children and adolescents and helps people of all ages make sense of and express their thoughts and feelings in a non-threatening way. The goal of the art therapy program is to help children express themselves and cope through using various art media. Through their work with this innovative program, Marilyn, Carla and Kate have helped and continue to help patients make sense of and express thoughts and feelings, communicate with medical staff, reduce stress and anxiety, and much more.

Bev Hartig and her husband moved to Indiana in 2002.  In 2003 they welcomed a daughter that suffers from Cri du Chat, which can be described as severe Down Syndrome; and in 2004 welcomed a healthy baby boy. After facing the many trials in dealing with their daughter’s disability, Bev was then diagnosed with Huntington’s Disease, a terminal genetic disease that is a mix between Alzheimer’s and ALS. Instead of living in fear of how their lives would play out, including a 50% chance their children would inherit this disease, Bev and her husband Bob started their own non-profit organization called the Bev Hartig Huntington’s Disease Fundraiser.  So far they have raised over $350,000 towards finding a cure for Huntington’s Disease.  Bev has made a huge difference in the Indianapolis community by showing courage in the face of adversity.  Instead of giving up and allowing the disease to run her life, she if facing this disease head on and teaching others how to deal with hardship.

Officer Marilyn Gurnell's husband, Officer Ed Gurnell accepts the award.

Officer Gurnell has devoted herself to educating and developing young girls in the Police Athletic League (PAL) into responsible young women and good citizens.  She has given large amounts of her own time, serving as a Cheerleading Coach to three different age groups of girls.  She has inspired others to volunteer as assistant coaches and cares for their uniforms, washing and pressing them herself.  She also has provided them with other clothing and food as well as school supplies.   Marilyn has not just volunteered her time for a few months or a few years, she has served for over 20 years as a PAL volunteer.  Until Marilyn came along, PAL was an all boys’ club, where she served as coach, mentor and mother, all with an unrelenting vigilance.

Community

IBE and PS&E Strengthen Partnership During Summer Celebration to Highlight NBA All-Star Weekend and Opportunities

PS&E Partners with Local Park Organizations to Leave Lasting Legacy

Hoosier Lottery Community Impact Award

2013-14 Indiana Heroes Award Recipients